iDEX – Defence India Startup Challenge (DISC)
by iDEX · Ministry of Defence
Innovations for Defence Excellence funds startups, MSMEs and innovators solving real problem statements issued by the Armed Forces and defence PSUs, with a clear path to procurement.
Quick answer
Innovations for Defence Excellence funds startups, MSMEs and innovators solving real problem statements issued by the Armed Forces and defence PSUs, with a clear path to procurement.
| Funding amount | Up to ₹1.5 Crore |
|---|---|
| Funding type | Government Grant |
| Provider | iDEX · Ministry of Defence |
| Application deadline | Rolling · always open |
| Eligible stage | Prototype |
| Sector | DeepTech & Hardware |
| Who can apply | Indian startups, MSMEs, individual innovators and R&D institutes |
Who is eligible
- Indian startup, MSME, individual innovator or R&D institute
- Solution must address a live iDEX / DISC problem statement
- Company should be Indian-owned and controlled as per iDEX norms
- Ability to deliver a working prototype within the challenge timeline
Funding & benefits
- SPARK grant support of up to ₹1.5 crore (higher under iDEX Prime)
- Direct access to Armed Forces users for trials and feedback
- Pathway to defence procurement orders after successful trials
How to apply
- Browse the live problem statements on the iDEX portal
- Register and submit your technical and commercial proposal
- Evaluation, presentation and shortlisting by the iDEX High Powered Committee
- Sign the SPARK agreement and build the prototype against milestones
Documents you’ll need
- Company incorporation and ownership documents
- Detailed technical proposal against the problem statement
- Team profiles and prior work / IP
- Milestone plan and budget
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a defence background?
No, but your solution must directly address a published defence problem statement.
Is it equity-free?
SPARK support is grant-based; iDEX does not take equity for the standard challenge track.
Verify all details on the official link before applying, scheme terms and deadlines change. Pitch Karo India lists opportunities for discovery only, is not affiliated with the funding body, and never charges for applications.